The mediterranean influenced climate of McLaren Vale and ancient soils provide the ideal
conditions to grow premium Shiraz.
Grapes were sourced from a careful selection of vineyards across the region from Blewitt
Springs and Seaview in the North through Willunga and on to Sellicks Hill in the South. This
range of sites vary greatly in soil, aspect and age of vine to create a wine of complexity that
reflects the true, rich character of McLaren Vale Shiraz.
A wet winter and spring set the 2017 growing season up well. Budburst and flowering
occurred 2 – 3 weeks later than normal due to cooler than average temperatures.
Thankfully, stable dry conditions occurred at flowering resulting in excellent fruit set. Good
canopy management and an easing in the wet weather mid-January kept disease pressure
under control. Cooler summer temperatures lead to later than usual veraison and warm
days and cold nights provided perfect conditions for flavour development and ripening. Mild
weather from February to April resulted in 2017 being one of the latest harvests on record.
Wines from this vintage are lively, aromatic and vibrant with delicious dark berry flavours and
spice, finishing with resounding length and delicacy.

Winemaker Notes

The Vintage House is the oldest part of our winery. Here the grapes were crushed into 70 year
old open concrete vats where the fermentation is initiated by the indigenous “wild” yeasts
found on the grape skins. Careful pump overs, punchdowns and short post fermentation
maceration is followed by pressing. The resultant wine is transferred to French and
American oak Hogheads (300L barrels) where the malolactic fermentation is completed before
racking and maturation for 12-14 months. Barrel selection and assemblage is followed by
minimal filtration and bottling.